GENERAL MANAGER OF EAST COAST RAILWAY INSPECTS KORAPUT-RAYAGADA LINE General Manager, East Coast Railway (ECoR), Shri Parmeshwar Funkwal, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Koraput-Rayagada line today. Accompanied by Divisional Railway Manager, Waltair Division, Shri Lalit Bohra, Principal Departmental Heads, and Branch Officers, he reviewed railway establishments, stations, and ongoing developmental works in the section. The review included a window trailing inspection of tracks, curves, bridges, points& crossings, Yards etc. Shri Parmeshswar Funkwal began at Koraput railway station, where he assessed passenger amenities and progress on Amrit Bharat Station Scheme developments. He then visited Kakiriguma station to inspect the station building and pending works, followed by Lakshmipur Road station. There, he examined the railway colony, health unit, and facilities, while interacting with staff from Overhead Equipment (OHE) Maintenance Car (Electrical-Traction Distribution), Signal & Telecom, Engineering, and Operations departments. Discussions focused on their skills, safety awareness, work culture, and any grievances. General Manager further inspected Major Bridge No. 354 and a critical 5-degree curve between Sikarpai and Keutguda. He verified bridge integrity, curve alignment, safety fastenings, and track parameters, engaging directly with on-site gangmen for firsthand feedback on maintenance challenges, safety practices, and section-specific issues. Further he continued this inspection at Rayagada station, Shri Parmeshwar Funkwal thoroughly reviewed the new station building, control room and newly constructed railway offices, while monitoring ongoing works. Divisional Railway Manager, Rayagada, Shri Amitabh Singhal, also joined the inspection at the Rayagada station. GM, Shri Parmeshwar Funkwal, felicitated frontline staff including gangmen, TRD Team with cash awards during his inspection. The recognition honors their exemplary commitment and seamless execution of duties at typical sections.

SHRI VINAY KUMAR ASSUMES CHARGE AS DIRECTOR (FINANCE) AT RINL Shri Vinay Kumar today took charge as the Director (Finance) at Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), bringing with him a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in various facets of finance. A highly accomplished finance professional, Shri Kumar holds a BA (Hons.) in Economics (1995) and is a Chartered Accountant (1999). Shri Kumar’s career journey began in 2001 when he joined SAIL’s (Steel Authority of India Limited) Central Marketing Organisation (CMO). Throughout his career, he has made notable contributions to financial reforms, taxation, and operational efficiency, significantly enhancing financial management and compliance across various functions. Key Career Contributions: Financial Reforms: Shri Kumar played a pivotal role in the implementation of VAT, the introduction of A4-size invoicing, and the establishment of robust financial control systems at SAIL. Strategic Financial Leadership: He has overseen diverse assignments including taxation, MIS development, ERP implementation, credit rating monitoring, and ensuring clean audit performance. Innovative Strategies: Shri Kumar introduced LC discounting strategies and was instrumental in the successful implementation of GST, e-invoicing, and e-way bill systems across the CMO. Market Forecasting & Analysis: As the Head of the Market Analyst Group, Shri Kumar was the Single Point of Contact for the Annual Business Perspective and Modernization & Expansion Plans at SAIL. His expertise in using steel intensity combined with GDP growth helped accurately forecast the steel demand in India. Leadership Roles: Shri Kumar was also a key member of the Economics Committee of the Indian Steel Association, where he played an important role in the forecasting of India’s steel consumption. Additionally, he served as SAIL’s Single Point of Contact for the Joint Plant Committee under the Ministry of Steel. Before joining RINL, Shri Kumar was responsible for indirect taxation for all SAIL plants and units at the Corporate Office, where he made significant contributions to boosting the company’s financial performance and revenue growth. At RINL, Shri Kumar is expected to continue driving financial excellence, innovation, and efficiency, contributing to the company’s growth and its alignment with India’s larger industrial and economic goals.

GROWING PUBLIC-PRIVATE SYNERGY FUELS INDIA’S INDIGENOUS WARSHIP CONSTRUCTION The synergy between the public and private sectors is a key driver in India’s indigenous warship construction efforts, said Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary of Defence Production, in a virtual address at the South Zone Quality Assurance Industry Conclave 2025. Held on December 10, 2025, in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, the conclave was organized by the Directorate of Quality Assurance (Warship Projects), Department of Defence Production. Shri Kumar endorsed Quality Assurance (QA)-led reforms, specifically highlighting the Green Channel certification and the increased digitization of processes as critical factors in empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These reforms are seen as essential to ensuring the faster delivery of defence assets while improving overall efficiency in the warship construction process. Leveraging Technology for Operational Readiness “To achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, technology must be leveraged to streamline processes,” said Shri Kumar. He emphasized that reducing friction in the supply chain is crucial for ensuring operational readiness of India’s defence forces. The push towards greater digital integration and improved QA processes, he added, will ensure that India can meet its defence requirements in a timely and cost-effective manner. A Shift Towards Preventative Quality Control Dr. Garima Bhagat, Joint Secretary (Land Systems), Department of Defence Production, also spoke at the conclave, stressing the need for a paradigm shift in the defence industry’s approach to quality. Moving away from traditional inspection-based models, Dr. Bhagat called for a focus on prevention rather than detection. She encouraged industry partners to build quality into the manufacturing process from the very beginning, ensuring that the final product meets the highest standards without the need for extensive post-production testing. Key Highlights of the Conclave: Strategic Dialogue: A platform to strengthen the cooperation between the Indian Navy and industry partners on component quality for warship construction. Tech Integration: Discussions on integrating advanced technologies to ensure the combat readiness of India''s naval assets. Vision Alignment: Reaffirming quality as the anchor of India’s path towards self-reliance and supporting the goal of a developed India by 2047. Aligning Industry with National Vision The conclave served as a vital forum to align Southern India’s defence industrial base with the nation’s broader vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and Maritime Vision 2047. Bringing together around 80 industry representatives from major industrial hubs such as Coimbatore, Chennai, and Bengaluru, the event focused on fostering a robust ecosystem for indigenous warship construction. The discussions centered on building a sustainable supply chain, leveraging advanced Quality Assurance frameworks, and ensuring long-term self-sufficiency in the defence sector.

VIZAG NAVY MARATHON 2025: OVER 17,000 RUNNERS SET TO COMPETE THIS SUNDAY The Indian Navy is all set to host the landmark 10th edition of the Vizag Navy Marathon (VNM) on 14 December 2025, as part of the Navy Day celebrations. This year’s marathon has received a record-breaking response, with more than 17,000 runners registered across four race categories: 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km. Event Details and Race Categories The marathon will kick off from the Vishwapriya Function Hall, located along the iconic RK Beach in Visakhapatnam. Runners will enjoy a scenic and refreshing experience, as the race routes have been carefully mapped out along the picturesque Vizag coastline. Full Marathon (42 km): Flagged off at 0415 hrs. Half Marathon (21 km): Starts at 0430 hrs. 10 km Run: Begins at 0530 hrs. 5 km Run: Kicks off at 0600 hrs. Participants are urged to arrive at least 30 minutes before their respective start times to ensure a smooth race day experience. Runner Facilities and Amenities To ensure a seamless experience for all participants, several key facilities will be available: Parking: Ample parking is available at Vishwapriya Function Hall, AU Convention Centre, and AU English Medium School. Hydration Points: A total of 12 hydration stations will be strategically placed along the race routes. Medical Support: Medical teams will be stationed throughout the course for emergency care. Baggage Counter: A dedicated baggage counter will be available at the venue for runners’ convenience. Post-Race Amenities: All finishers will receive a special Naval-themed medal. Additional post-race services include first-aid, safety cover, and a post-run breakfast for participants. Important Information for Participants In the interest of safety and smooth event conduct, participants and the general public are advised to follow all traffic regulations and road safety guidelines issued by the District Administration. This will help ensure a safe and well-organized event for everyone. A Celebration of Fitness and Patriotism The Vizag Navy Marathon not only celebrates fitness but also raises awareness about India’s maritime heritage and the crucial role of the Indian Navy. The Navy is excited to welcome thousands of enthusiastic runners and encourage the community to join in this vibrant celebration of fitness, maritime awareness, and the spirit of Navy Day.